Presyncope

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Presyncope is a state of lightheadedness, muscular weakness, blurred vision, and feeling faint (as opposed to a syncope, which is actually fainting). Presyncope is connected to insufficient blood flow to the brain or sudden changes in the position of the body.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Presyncope can be caused by various conditions. Some of the most common include:

  • Orthostatic hypotension: This is a form of low blood pressure that happens when you stand up from sitting or lying down.
  • Cardiac arrhythmia: Irregular heartbeats can cause presyncope.
  • Vasovagal syncope: This is a common cause of fainting. The vagus nerve controls your body's blood pressure and heart rate. If this nerve gets overstimulated, it can cause a sudden drop in both of these readings, leading to presyncope.
  • Dehydration: When your body doesn't have enough water, it can cause low blood pressure, which can lead to presyncope.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of presyncope can vary from person to person, but they often include:

  • Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
  • Nausea
  • Yawning
  • Sweating
  • Blurred vision
  • Rapid heartbeat

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

To diagnose presyncope, a doctor will typically ask about your medical history and perform a physical examination. They may also order tests such as:

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test measures the electrical activity of your heart.
  • Echocardiogram: This test uses sound waves to create a detailed image of your heart.
  • Tilt table test: This test can help determine how your body responds to changes in position.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for presyncope depends on the underlying cause. It may include:

  • Medications: If presyncope is caused by an irregular heartbeat, medications can help regulate your heart rate.
  • Lifestyle changes: If presyncope is caused by dehydration or orthostatic hypotension, drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding sudden changes in position can help.
  • Surgery: In rare cases, if presyncope is caused by a serious heart condition, surgery may be necessary.

See also[edit | edit source]

Presyncope Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD